JBL announces its Legend CP100 head unit with support for CarPlay
Harman today has announced the JBL Legend CP100 in-car infotainment system. The JBL Legend CP100 marks the company’s first in-car solution that is compatible with Apple’s CarPlay system, joining the growing number of aftermarket solutions for obtaining Apple’s car infotainment system in older vehicles.
The JBL Legend CP100 features a 6.75-inch capacitive touchscreen, as opposed to a resistive touchscreen offered by other head unit manufacturers. Capacitive touchscreens are often easier to use as they require a lighter touch to navigate. Furthermore, the Legend CP100 features an AM/FC tuner, rear USB input, rear camera input, and carries support for steering wheel controls. The rear camera input would allow for users to connect a backup camera to the display.
The head unit also offers a “push to talk” button, which JBL says provides instant access to Siri. There’s also support for Bluetooth 3.0. The JBL Legend does not appear, however, to support wireless CarPlay, which was introduced last year but has yet to really catch on in any significant fashion.
As far as the look of the head unit goes, it features an all black design with white illumination buttons, and the aforementioned “push to talk button.” There’s also a volume button and a power button.
Pricing and availability for the JBL Legend CP100 is unclear at this point. The full press release can be read below:
HARMAN Launches JBL Legend CP100 In-Dash Smart Phone Receiver
A CEA Innovations award winning connected infotainment system packed with easy to use in-car entertainment capabilities.
CES 2016, LAS VEGAS – Today, HARMAN International Industries, Incorporated (NYSE:HAR), the premier connected technologies company for automotive, consumer and enterprise markets, has announced the JBL Legend CP100 connected car solution. The JBL Legend CP100 provides drivers a simple and easy way to experience their Smartphone capabilities while driving safer, smarter and connected.
The JBL Legend CP100 supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and is built on the same platform that Harman offers OEM customers, The JBL Legend CP100 incorporates a 6.75” capacitive touch screen and leading edge iMX6 processor which provides one of the fastest responding interfaces on the market. Making calls, sending messages, finding directions, playing music and navigating all become easier, safer and more intuitive using the JBL Legend CP100.
Using Bluetooth, the JBL Legend CP100 connects wirelessly to easily control the audio and Smartphone from the large touch screen allowing for easy and safe operating of the system while driving. The JBL Legend CP100 is the least expensive display upgrade available to date which upgrades the customer’s vehicle to today’s technology. To complete the connected car experience, JBL’s Legend CP100 is steering wheel interface ready, so all the features and functions can be used in a safe and convenient manner. A rear camera input let’s drivers easily connect a back-up camera to aid in parking. Furthermore, drivers can utilize the “push to talk” button for Siri or Google Voice allowing for a smarter and safer way to stay connected behind the wheel.
“We wanted to leverage our extensive and established market leading head unit know how to create a system that would provide stunning performance and integration at a market leading price point,” said Jeffery Fay, VP and GM of Aftermarket Services at HARMAN. “The JBL Legend CP100 has clean graphics and simple design that lets drivers easily find what they are looking for while on the road. Packed with the latest technology and design advancements at an affordable price, JBL’s Legend CP100 is an outstanding performer.”
Features and Pricing:
- 6.75” Touch Capacitive Screen
- AM/FM Tuner with station identification and song name
- Rear USB input
- Rear Camera Input (composite)
- Steering Wheel Interface Ready (ASWC Ready)
- Bluetooth 3.0 HFP, AVRCP, A2DP, SPP, SSP
- Works with Apple Car Play
- Android Auto
- White Illumination Buttons
- 2 Pre-Amp Outputs (Full Range F + R)
- “Push to talk” button Siri, Google Voice,
- iMX6 Processor
Filed under: iOS Devices Tagged: Apple, CarPlay, Harman, JBL
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Apple reportedly preparing to build second data center cluster in Reno
Apple is set to further set to build upon its data center in Reno, Nevada according to a report out of the Reno Gazette-Journal. Apple has been building upon its Reno data center for a while now, but the company has recently filed a permit with the county requesting permission to construct a new data center adjacent to the existing one.
The report claims that Apple will build the second data center under the codename “Project Huckleberry.” The new data center will reportedly be several new clusters of data centers, as well as a support building. This is similar to the existing to the similar set up in Reno, which is codenamed “Project Mills.”
A senior planner for Washoe County told the Reno Gazette-Journal that Project Huckleberry will be similar to Project Mills. “It’s a whole different set of buildings but it looks like it is going to be essentially the same design as Project Mills, only turned perpendicularly to the east,” Trevor Lloyd told the news organization.
Apple has yet to complete construction of its Project Mills data center as it keeps expanding, although it is operational. The company has invested more than $1 billion into the center. Project Mills consists 14 building combining for over 412,00 square feet of space. The center is responsible for Apple’s cloud services like iCloud, iTunes, and the App Store.
Apple hopes to be granted the permit for Project Huckleberry by the end of this month. It makes sense for Apple to continue building at the same site for data expansions, as uprooting its structure would undoubtedly be time and money consuming.
Filed under: AAPL Company Tagged: Apple, Data center, icloud, Reno
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Samsung Gear S2 to gain iOS compatibility later this year, now comes in gold & platinum
At its CES keynote, Samsung announced that its Gear S2 smartwatches will come in two new metal finishes and will get iOS compatibility later this year.
The Gear S2 launched with compatibility for non-Samsung Android devices, whereas their previous wearables required a Samsung phone. Later this year, the S2 will receive an update that adds support for iOS devices. The level of integration and feature set is unknown, but will likely come via a companion app on the App Store.
The smartwatch will now also come in 18K Rose Gold Plated and Platinum variants, in addition to the current stainless steel model with leather strap. The regular Gear S2 just comes with a plastic body and rubber wrist strap. The two new models will be available starting in February, though pricing has yet to be announced.
More Google-y CES coverage is available over on 9to5Google.
Filed under: Tech Industry Tagged: gear s2, iOS compatibility, Samsung, Samsung Gear S2
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CES 2016 Roundup: The best iPhone, iPad, Mac, & Apple Watch accessories on show this week
While Apple doesn’t make a public appearance at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, most of the companies building products for Macs and iOS devices do. That’s why we have most of the team at at CES 2016 this year covering the new and notable for Apple related products as the show officially kicks off tomorrow.
It can be a little much to go through day by day with announcements already happening by the hour, so we’re compiling the best of the best here to give you one quick and easy place to check out all of the best new iPhone, iPad, Mac and Apple Watch accessories on show this week.
Products that support Apple’s HomeKit platform are one area we have our eye on this year, while we’re also seeing a lot of accessories that support USB Type-C for owners of the new 12-inch MacBook. We start things off with a first for Apple’s Siri-controlled HomeKit platform, a connected ceiling fan from Hunter…
Hunter HomeKit Fan
- WiFi enabled and support for Apple’s HomeKit platform, the ceiling fans are named Symphony and Signal and come in at $329 and $379.
Griffin
- Survivor Mounts and Power Bank
- BreakSafe USB-C MagSafe adapter
- Travel Power Bank for Apple Watch
- Survivor Slim iPad Pro
- Griffin’s PowerMate Bluetooth, Elevator, and Guide accessories get new colors to match the 12-inch MacBook’s gold, space gray, and silver color options.
Incipio
- ClamCase for iPad Pro, iPad Air, and iPad mini
- Incipio adds USB-C MacBook docks, dockable offGRID iPhone batteries to lineup
Hyper
- iShowFast Lightning drive
- HyperLink & Amber charging case for Apple Watch
And yet more HomeKit products were on show this week including new entries from Honeywell, iDevices, and iHome:
Honeywell
FitBit
iDevices
iHome
Ford CarPlay
Belkin
- Watch Valet Charge Dock (This is a less expensive version ($89) of the $129 Charge Dock I reviewed back in October, but minus the integrated Lightning connector for iPhone charging.)
- Belkin launches new USB-C accessories
Brydge for iPad Pro
HandScape
LaCie + Seagate
Acer & Lenovo
Check back all week for more CES 2016 announcements
Filed under: iOS Devices Tagged: Apple watch, CarPlay, CES 2016, Griffin, homekit, Incipio, iPad, iPhone
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Apple Watch launches in Malaysia today, Czech Republic & Portugal later this month
Apple today has made the Apple Watch available to potential customers in Malaysia. All three tiers of the device are available, including the Sport, stainless steel, and Apple Watch Edition. As usual, the prices are tiered between each level with 38mm and 42mm variants being available.
The Apple Watch Sport starts at RM 1,599 for the 38mm model and increases to RM 1,849 for the 42mm variant. The stainless steel model starts at RM 2,499 for the 38mm model and increases to RM 2,749 for the 42mm model, both with a sport band. Finally, the Apple Watch Edition starts at RM 47,000 for the 38mm model with a sport band, while the 42mm model runs RM 57,000, both in rose gold.
Furthermore, the exclusive Chinese New Year edition (PRODUCT)RED Apple Watch Sport models revealed earlier today are also available in Malaysia. These models include silver and gold variants with a (PRODUCT)RED sport band being included.
Heading into 2016, Apple looks to continue expanding Apple Watch availability. On January 29th, the device will become available in Portugal and Czech Republic. The Apple Watch initially launched in 9 countries around the globe on April 24th of last year and has gradually been expanding to more markets since then. We reported last month, however, that Apple plans to introduce the second-gen model during a March press event.
Filed under: Apple Watch Tagged: Apple, Apple watch
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Review: Riutbag, the back-to-front backpack designed to keep your gadgets safe from thieves
Backpacks are as convenient a way to carry things around a city as they are when hiking in the great outdoors, keeping your hands free and spreading the load across two shoulders, but they can be a little worrying when you’re carrying expensive gadgets. The reason? All the zips are behind you. Standing on an escalator, in an elevator or on a platform waiting for a train, you always have the worry of a thief quietly unzipping the compartments to make off with your hard-earned technology.
A messenger bag feels safer, because you can carry it at your side with an arm across it, but it’s less convenient and less comfortable than a backpack. This is the problem Riut set out to solve, with a secure backpack designed specifically to keep your gadgets safe from sneak thieves – so I thought I’d give it a try …
A conventional backpack design has two flaws where security is concerned. First, all the zips are on the outside, leaving them accessible to anyone standing behind you. Second, there are usually lots of separate compartments, each with their own zip, so multiple pockets are left vulnerable.
The Riutbag reverses this approach. First, the zips are against your back, where it would be virtually impossible for anyone to unzip them. Second, there are only two zips – one for a small phone/wallet pocket, and the other one giving access to all of the interior compartments. In this photo, the small pocket zip is completely hidden beneath the straps, while the main compartment zips are shown at the side. In practice, when wearing it, you keep the zips at the top, where they are completely inaccessible without removing the backpack.
The original Riutbag, launched back in 2014 after a successful Kickstarter campaign, was a little bulky for everyday use, with a capacity of 20 litres. The new models are available in a choice of 10 and 15 litre capacities. I tested the slimmer of these, the Riutbag 10, which is small enough to slip under an airline seat so should be accepted as a second bag for those airlines that allow a laptop bag in addition to your main carry-on.
Look & feel
The lack of rear zips aside, the Riutbag 10 looks very much like every other commuter backpack out there, especially in the new black version I tried (there’s also a grey one). It’s smart enough to take to meetings, but doesn’t in any way stand out – something I consider a plus when carrying valuables. You don’t want a bag that screams out ‘Gadget bag – steal me!’.
One immediate difference you notice from most urban backpacks is the shiny plastic base. This is waterproof, and designed to ensure that the contents remain dry if you ever need to take it off and put it down on a wet sidewalk to access the bag. It’s one of those small touches that tells you the company has thought about practicality. The main fabric material is, like most backpacks, water resistant but not fully waterproof.
Wallet/phone pocket
If you’re in an area where pickpocketing is a concern, it’s nice to be able to slip your wallet and phone into a secure pocket while also keeping them reasonably accessible. The pocket is very small, but was large enough for my iPhone 6s and Belroy wallet. It also accommodates a standard passport and a set of keys.
Laptop compartment
When you open up the main zip, there’s a laptop slot large enough for a 15-inch MacBook Pro, with elastic straps to hold it in place when opening the bag flat on the floor. This slot is extremely well padded on the outside – the side that sits against your back. There’s only thin padding on the other side, but it seems adequate unless you’re carrying anything sharp inside the bag.
Other compartments
Next is what Riut describes as an A4 document holder. As a paperless person, I used this for my iPad Air 2, comfortably accommodated with the attached Brydge keyboard. There’s a generously-sized cable compartment, easily big enough for a power pack and a complete set of cables. A nice touch here is the four color-coded cable-tidy straps included. There’s also a business card slot in here, which I used for a USB key. There are four pen/pencil slots above for anyone who uses such things – could be useful for an Apple Pencil when carrying an iPad Pro.
Finally, there is a large general compartment suitable for a sweater and other bits and pieces, plus two slim zipped pockets suitable for documents or more cables.
In use
The bag is comfortable to wear, though it did take a couple of days for the straps to lose some of their initial stiffness. There’s a chest strap, which personally I find overkill on a bag of this size, and it wasn’t that comfortable when I tried it. Personally, on anything short of a hefty hiking/climbing backpack, I tend to cut off chest straps.
I quickly got used to the reverse design of the bag. You do have to be a little careful unzipping the main compartment, as it can flop right down to the ground. This is actually really useful when you want to get at something in the general compartment – far preferable to the rummaging around needed with many backpacks – but you need to get used to it, to ensure you don’t allow things to fall out. The elastic straps on the laptop are reassuring here.
I was impressed how much even the smallest of the range held. As someone who travels light, this would even work for me as a weekend bag.
Price & conclusions
At $120 for the 10-liter model and $135 for the 15-liter version, it’s not an inexpensive bag. You could pick up a broadly similar-quality conventional backpack for less than half this amount – albeit usually not as well organized inside.
The question then becomes whether the secure design is worth the premium. Personally, I think it is. Having stuff stolen from a backpack isn’t an everyday occurrence, but the risk is something I’m conscious of when wearing a conventional one, so there is that constant background concern about it. That makes every journey just that little bit less pleasant.
Having invited a couple of friends to try opening the Riutbag zips when I was wearing it, I feel totally confident nobody could do so without me being aware of the attempt. It thus provides real peace of mind when you can easily be carrying three grand’s worth of electronics. My view is that the premium you pay will soon be forgotten, but the reassurance will be appreciated each time you use it.
The black Riutbag is available for pre-order from Riut’s website, for delivery in February. The grey one is theoretically available now, but currently showing out of stock. The R10 is $120, and the R15 $135.
Filed under: Reviews Tagged: Gadget backpack, laptop backpack, macbook backpack, R10, R15, R20, Riutbag, Riutbag 10, Riutbag 15, Riutbag 20, Riutbag review
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Incipio adds USB-C MacBook docks, dockable offGRID iPhone batteries to lineup
Expanding upon earlier product lineups, Incipio today announced a number of 12″ MacBook-ready USB Type-C accessories and dockable offGRID series batteries for iPhone users. The USB-C accessories offer affordable ways to expand either the ports or charging capabilities of Apple’s Retina MacBook, while the offGRID options include compact, device-agnostic dockable batteries and a new iPhone 6/6s battery case…
On the USB-C front, Incipio announced the Type-C Dual Port Hub ($25), which inexpensively adds twin full-sized USB ports to the 12″ MacBook and other devices with USB-C ports, and the USB Type-C Dock ($80), which includes one full-sized USB port, one HDMI port, one Ethernet port, and one USB-C port that passes through power for MacBook charging. Each of the compact jet black peripherals includes a retractable USB-C cable.
Incipio also announced the tablet/phone-ready USB Type-C Car Charger ($35), the laptop/tablet/phone-ready USB Type-C Wall Charger ($35), and two versions of the USB Type-C + Quick Charge 3.0 Portable Backup Battery ($100/8,000mAh, $130/12,000mAh), each with laptop/tablet/phone support. The Wall Charger and Batteries also have full-sized USB ports to support non-USB-C devices; the Car Charger does not.
On the iPhone front, Incipio’s offGRID Backup Battery 2000mAh ($60) is a tube-shaped 2,000mAh/2.1A cell with an integrated Lightning connector, compatible with the new offGRID Charging Dock. Oddly, Incipio will sell a $70 dual 2000mAh battery bundle with the Charging Dock, which is capable of recharging both batteries at once using wireless contacts in its base.
As a sequel to the company’s popular offGRID Express battery case for iPhone 6, the new offGRID Bluetooth Smart Backup Battery Case for iPhone 6/6s ($80) features a 3,000mAh cell and the ability to “wirelessly monitor and control power and battery usage” using Incipio’s Smart Battery app. The same concept was announced two years ago for an earlier “offGRID Smart” battery case for iPhone 5/5s, which may or may not have shipped. It’s unclear why anyone would need to remotely monitor or control an iPhone battery case, but if you want that feature (and don’t mind paying a premium for it), all of Incipio’s new offGRID and USB-C solutions are coming in the second quarter of this year.
More From This Author
Check out more of my reviews, How-To guides and editorials for 9to5Mac here! I’ve published a lot of different topics of interest to Mac, iPad, iPhone, iPod, Apple TV, and Apple Watch users, as well as a personal gift guide for Apple fans, a great gift guide for iPhone users, a detailed gift guide for Mac users, and a separate gift guide for Apple photographers.
Filed under: iOS Devices Tagged: dock, Incipio, MacBook, offGRID, USB-C
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iHeartRadio announces new app coming to fourth-gen Apple TV
iHeartMedia, the company behind the popular iHeartRadio streaming service, has today announced that it will soon support the fourth-generation Apple TV. In Las Vegas for the Consumer Electronics Show, it was announced that iHeartRadio will soon be available to users of the Apple TV via an all new application.
The Apple TV app won’t be limited in any fashion, the company says. Users will be able to experience all of the core elements of iHeartRadio on their TV, with the ability to listen to live stations, custom stations, and podcasts. Users will also be able to view For You recommendations, save favorite stations, and the service’s latest My Favorites Radio functionality. My Favorites Radio is a feature that allows users to pick their favorite artists and stations and create one central station with it all.
The app itself is not yet available via the App Store on Apple TV, but it shouldn’t be too much longer before it launches. The full press release is below. iHeartRadio is coming to new Samsung, LG, and DTS devices as well with today’s expansion.
iHeartMedia Announces Multiple New iHeartRadio Consumer Electronic Integrations at CES 2016
Announcements in connected home and personal technology bring the iHeartRadio experience to even more consumers
LAS VEGAS–(BUSINESS WIRE)–iHeartMedia, creator of iHeartRadio – the all-in-one streaming music and live digital radio service — has announced multiple new app integrations at the Consumer Electronics Show, with more to come throughout the week. Announcements across a variety of platforms signify the beginning of a year of innovative new developments for iHeartRadio, which counts over 75 million registered users and 800 million downloads.
The company is integrating iHeartRadio with devices across home entertainment, home connectivity and wearable technology:
- Samsung: Two new integrations with Samsung devices– Multi-Screen, a service that will allow iHeartRadio to be seamlessly cast to various Samsung devices, and Gear S2, Samsung’s latest wearable smartwatch. The integration with Multi-Screen will allow users of the iHeartRadio for Android and Tizen apps to cast the iHeartRadio experience to Samsung speakers and televisions. While the Gear S2 integration will give these smartwatch users access to iHeartRadio’s Live and Custom Radio and Podcasts with an easy rotation of a watch bezel users have grown to love.
- LG Smart ThinQ Hub: A new integration with LG’s Smart ThinQ, the unique new smarthome hub from LG that will allow users to listen to both Live and Custom Stations through iHeartRadio’s app, automatically recalling the user’s favorites and preferences. The partnership with Smart ThinQ will provide a simple and easy listening experience, where users can simply click left or right to access multiformat content – from local stations to other favorites – with just the push of a button.
- Apple: The integration with Apple TV will allow users to experience all of the core elements of the iHeartRadio app including access to thousands of Live Stations, Custom Stations (based on a song or artist search) and podcasts. Both registered and unregistered users of iHeartRadio will be able to play Live and Custom Radio, view For You recommendations, save favorite stations and access iHeartRadio’s newest feature – My Favorites Radio – which combines a user’s favorite stations and artists into one station. The new interface also features sleek design elements optimized for the Apple TV viewing experience.
- DTS: This integration with DTS Play-Fi will allow listeners with the free Play-Fi app on their iPhone, iPad, Android phone or tablet to stream their favorite iHeartRadio Live and Custom stations to any Play-Fi enabled speaker via Wi-Fi. iHeartRadio registered users will be able to enjoy their favorite tunes around the house in the highest-quality, lossless audio to the widest selection of speakers in the whole-home streaming category.
“These new iHeartRadio integrations allow us to offer our listeners an even more seamless listening experience wherever they are,” said Michele Laven, President of Business Development and Partnerships for iHeartMedia. “We are always looking for new ways to deliver high quality entertainment experiences to our listeners, and we are excited to be able to offer iHeartRadio to even more devices, which will reach even more music lovers.”
These partnerships speak to iHeartRadio’s continued efforts to be available for listeners across any platform or device, and join a robust roster of more than 60 existing iHeartRadio platform integrations across web, mobile, tablets, automotive, smart TVs, connected home hubs, gaming consoles and more.
iHeartRadio delivers everything listeners want in an all-in-one platform: instant access to thousands of Live Radio stations from across the country, user-created Custom Stations inspired by a favorite artist or song, thousands of curated digital stations, and on-demand news, talk and entertainment podcasts. To see all available platforms and to download the app, visit iHeartRadio.com/apps.
About iHeartMedia
With 245 million monthly listeners in the U.S., 87 million monthly digital uniques, over 75 million social followers and 196 million monthly consumers of its Total Traffic and Weather Network, iHeartMedia has the largest reach of any radio or television outlet in America. It serves over 150 markets through 858 owned radio stations, and the company’s radio stations and content can be heard on AM/FM, HD digital radio, satellite radio, on the Internet at iHeartRadio.com and on the company’s radio station websites, on the iHeartRadio mobile app, in enhanced auto dashes, on tablets and smartphones, and on gaming consoles.
iHeartRadio, iHeartMedia’s digital radio platform, is the No. 1 all-in-one digital audio service with over 800 million downloads; it reached its first 20 million registered users faster than any digital service in Internet history and reached 70 million users faster than any other radio or digital music service and even faster than Facebook. The company’s operations include radio broadcasting, online, mobile, digital and social media, live concerts and events, syndication, music research services and independent media representation. iHeartMedia is a division of iHeartMedia, Inc. (OTCBB: IHRT). Visit iHeartMedia.com for more company information.
Filed under: Apple TV, Apps Tagged: Apple TV, iHeartMedia, IHeartRadio
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iHome unveils new SmartPlug model w/ power consumption tracking, remote control support
iHome today has unveiled a handful of new accessories at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. The well-known accessory maker has unveiled a new version of its popular SmartPlug, a handful of Bluetooth accessories, and a pair of new docking stations.
Perhaps most notably is the new version of iHome’s SmartPlug. For those unfamiliar, the WiFi-enabled SmartPlug adds Siri automation to any two- or three-pronged accessory you have around the house. The accessory is controlled via iHome’s app and Siri. We reviewed the original model last year and noted of it being an inexpensive way to try out HomeKit.
The first iteration of iHome’s SmartPlug was unveiled at CES 2014 and was relatively popular when it was released last summer. This year, then company is introducing the iSP8 SmartPlug as a successor to the iSP5. The new model features all of the same capabilities as last year’s, but adds the ability to manage it with a remote control, should you not have your smartphone or tablet near you. The iPS8 also features power consumption monitoring of devices that are plugged into it.
iHome has also unveiled a pair of new docking stations. The first is the iDL44 Lightning Dock, which features built FM radio capabilities, Time Sync capabilities, and Reson8 speaker chambers for “exceptional” sound quality. The iDL44 will be available for $99.99. Further more, the iPL24 is a more compact and affordable version of the iDL44 and will be available for $69.99.
Next, iHome has unveiled a plethora of Bluetooth accessories. The iBT37 is a waterproof rechargeable speaker, the Kineta K5 is a Bluetooth capable alarm clock, and the iBT682 is your standard Bluetooth speaker but with a “color changing mode.” Finally, the accessory maker has unveiled the iB29 metal Bluetooth earbuds and the iB71 Bluetooth water-resistant earbuds.
More info is available in the press release below.
iHome Unveils New Smart Home Products, Portable Speaker Lines, Docking Stations, Bluetooth Headphones, Fresh Home Gadgets & More at the 2016 Consumer Electronics Show
RAHWAY, NJ, January 5, 2016 – The world’s best-selling digital speaker brand and emerging smart home innovator will unveil its most diverse product lineup in the company’s rich 60 year history at this year’s Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. Highlighting the 2016 lineup will be new products from iHome’s popular iHome Control smart home brand, as well as a new rugged portable speaker line called Weather Tough; gadgets for the home, Bluetooth speakers, mobile docking/charging stations, headphones and much more. Select offerings from the 2016 line-up include:
iHome Control Smart Home
iHome Control iSP8 SmartPlug With Remote Control & Power Monitoring
iHome’s first smart plug (iSP5) was unveiled at last year’s CES and was a top-seller in the category when it launched last summer. The new iSP8 features compatibility with iOS, Android, Nest, Wink and more. It allows users to control any connected device from home, or remotely. Turn on or off any small appliance such as fans, lights, and heaters remotely or at home via the free iHome Control app. The iSP8 also features power consumption monitoring of devices connected to the SmartPlug and works with an included remote control without using a smartphone or tablet. Expected MSRP: $49.99.
Weather Tough
iBT37 Portable Waterproof Rechargeable Bluetooth Speaker with Speakerphone
From the new Weather Tough line of rugged, weather/water- and shock-resistant, versatile audio units, the iBT37 lets users bring the music anywhere. The wireless system streams digital audio from Bluetooth-enabled devices. Built-in mic and digital voice echo cancellation make speakerphone use a pleasure. Operates on internal rechargeable battery, charges via USB charging port (USB cable included). IP67-rated water and dust proof, shock resistant. Carry strap with carabiner clip included. Expected MSRP: $39.99.
Docking Stations
iDL44 Lightning Dock Dual Alarm FM Stereo Clock Radio
A dual alarm clock FM radio for iPad, iPhone and iPod allows users to charge and play iOS devices as well as wake or sleep to them, or the built-in FM radio. The new Lightning Dock design allows extra space to fit most cases, including Apple’s new charging case. The Time Sync feature syncs the clock to an iPhone or iPad in moments. The iDL44 includes 6 FM presets, EQ controls and Reson8® speaker chambers for exceptional stereo sound, as well as a USB charging port to charge most mobile devices. Expected MSRP: $99.99.
iPL24 Dual Alarm FM Clock Radio
The iPL24 is a handsome, space-saving speaker unit featuring a Lightning connector to charge and play iPhones and iPods. New Lightning dock design offers extra flexibility to fit most cases, including Apple’s new charging case. Two alarms allows users to wake to their favorite iPhone or iPod tunes, or FM radio stations through a high fidelity driver in a specially designed Reson8® speaker chamber. Auto sync feature instantly sets clock to iPhone or iPod time. One amp USB port will charge most mobile devices and the aux-in jack connects almost any audio device equipped with a headphone jack. Expected MSRP: $69.99.
Kineta
K5 Dual Charging Bluetooth Dual Alarm Clock Radio/Speakerphone
From the popular Kineta line featuring removable K-CELL batteries, this compact and space-saving unit has a Bluetooth-enabled wireless FM clock radio with built-in speakerphone an offers a pop-out removable battery pack to charge devices. Stream wireless digital audio from Bluetooth-enabled devices to Reson8® speakers for full, rich sound. Built-in mic, digital voice echo cancellation and answer and end controls make speakerphone use a breeze. Expected MSRP: $69.99.
Colorful Portable Bluetooth Audio
iBT682 Color Changing Rechargeable True Wireless Bluetooth Speakers with Speakerphone
Bring the party anywhere with the funky portable iBT682 Bluetooth stereo speaker with speakerphone. Stream music wirelessly from any Bluetooth-enabled device. True Wireless technology for real stereo sound imaging. Speakers can be used together or separately. Never miss a call with the built-in speakerphone. Compact speaker fits in the palm of a hand, yet offers surprisingly rich, detailed sound. Color changing mode for fun, fabulous color effects. Operates on internal rechargeable battery, charges via included micro USB to standard USB charging cable. Expected MSRP: $59.99
Bluetooth Headphones
iB29 Wireless Bluetooth Metal Earbuds
Enjoy rich, detailed sound with enhanced bass response without inconvenient cables and cords. Earpieces connected by a stylish flat cable for tangle free use. Earbuds attach magnetically for added portability. Bluetooth 4.0 wireless capability offers lower energy consumption and allows users to listen to audio from mobile devices up to 30 feet away. Custom fit ear cushions make extended listening a pleasure. Built-in echo-cancelling mic allows for handling wireless phone calls and an in-line remote control puts track control, play/pause, answer/end calls and volume control within easy reach. Rechargeable lithium-ion battery provides 4 hours of continuous audio (music playback or phone). Includes USB charging cable. Expected MSRP: $29.99.
iB71 Bluetooth Wireless Water-Resistant Sport Earphones
Features iPX5-rated water-resistant construction for sweat-proof use and protection from the elements. Enjoy rich, detailed sound with enhanced bass response without inconvenient cables and cords (earpieces are connected by a stylish flat cable for tangle free use). Bluetooth 4.0 wireless capability lets you listen to audio from your mobile device from up to 30 feet away, while our custom fit ear cushions make extended listening a pleasure. Internal rechargeable lithium-ion battery provides 4 hours of continuous music or talking. Built-in echo-cancelling mic allows you to have wireless phone calls and an in-line remote control puts track control, play/pause, answer/end calls and volume control within easy reach. Multiple ear cushions and ear clips for a secure fit. Includes important extras such as USB charging cable and travel pouch. Expected MSRP: $39.99.
For more information, or to see the lineup of 2016 products from iHome, visit CES’s Tech East, Central Hall, Booth 9024. Please note a number of units, including all new smart home products, will only be shown to media with advanced press appointments.
Filed under: iOS Devices Tagged: Bluetooth, iHome, SmartPlug
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iDevices adds new Siri-controlled wall outlets, switches and light sockets to its HomeKit lineup
We’ve already seen some interesting new HomeKit accessories out of CES 2016 including the first Siri-controlled ceiling fans, and now iDevices is expanding its current lineup of HomeKit-compatible products with four new gadgets that make home automation even easier. The Apple accessory maker is showing off its new Socket, Wall Switch, Dimmer Switch, and Wall Outlet which will let you control and automate standard light bulbs and other appliances using iOS and Siri. iDevices already offers a HomeKit Switch and Outdoor Switch (plus Thermostat), and today’s newly announced gear includes hard-wired solutions and ways to turn any lightbulb into a smart lightbulb.
If you want to control your lights from iOS and Siri but don’t want to invest in expensive light bulbs with built-in Wi-Fi, iDevices Socket will connect between your current light socket and ordinary light bulbs. Socket lets you toggle lights on and off as well as change brightness levels, and a built-in nightlight on the unit can change colors as a bonus effect.
iDevices is also offering another method for making your lights smarter with the Wall Switch and Dimmer Switch. Both products replace standard light switches and add iOS control as well as LED nightlights on the hardware. Switch features standard on/off toggling, while Dimmer Switch adds brightness adjusting.
Finally, Wall Outlet is iDevices’ hard-wired solution for adding a smart outlet to your home. While Switch connects to the existing outlet and can easily be moved between rooms, Wall Outlet is a more permanent solution that looks like a traditional electrical outlet. It features two outlets which can be controlled individually, and Siri control and app automation for whatever you plug in.
Pricing details and specific release dates aren’t yet available, but we’ll keep an eye on this space throughout the year with updates when the new HomeKit gear is available. iDevices says Socket is coming during Q1, Wall Switch and Dimmer Switch in Q2, and Wall Outlet in Q3 so each product should be available before the next holiday season.
Filed under: HomeKit Tagged: Automation, dimmer switch, homekit, iDevices, iPad, iPhone, IPod Touch, outlet, Siri, socket, switch
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